Smoke clearing:
• Smoke clearing is a practice used by many Indigenous cultures as a way to cleanse, center, and restore balance. At its heart, this clearing is about intention.
• When we use smoke to clear, we use the smoke of sacred plants—often sage (although white sage is now endangered), cedar, sweetgrass, or tobacco—to clear away negative or heavy energy. But more than that, this clearing helps us pause. It invites us to be present, to reflect, and to reconnect with ourselves, our community, and the world around us.
• The value of smoke clearing is not just in the smoke—it’s in the mindfulness it creates. As the smoke rises, we’re reminded to let go of stress, anger, or distractions, and to make space for clarity, gratitude, and respect.
• Smoke clearing can also be a way of setting intentions. Whether before a gathering, a difficult conversation, or a moment of prayer or reflection, it helps create a safe and grounded space. It reminds us that our thoughts, words, and actions carry energy, and that we have a responsibility to approach life with care.
• This is also great for anyone who works from home, as it can help to separate the workspace from the home space. The mindset established is augmented by the subconscious connection to the scent produced.
• Above all, smoke clearing teaches balance—between mind, body, spirit, and community. When practiced respectfully, it becomes not just a ritual, but a reminder to walk with awareness, humility, and purpose
Set Your Intention
1) Before lighting anything, pause. Take a breath and quietly set an intention—such as cleansing, gratitude, healing, or clarity. Smoke clearing begins with mindfulness.
2) Light the Medicine
Light the tip of the plant medicine until it catches flame, then gently blow it out so it smolders and produces smoke.
3) Cleanse Yourself (Optional First Step)
Using your hand or a feather, gently guide the smoke toward yourself:
1. Over your head (mind and thoughts)
2. Over your heart (emotions)
3. Down your arms and hands (actions)
4. Around your body (spirit and balance)
4) Cleanse the Space
Move slowly around the room, guiding smoke into corners, doorways, and windows. Focus on clearing heavy or unwanted energy and inviting calm and respect.
5) Offer Words or Silence
Some people speak a prayer or words of gratitude; others remain silent. Either is acceptable, as long as it’s done with sincerity.
6) Close the Clearing
When finished, gently extinguish the medicine in the bowl or shell. Thank the plant medicine and take a moment to reflect
